Western Connecticut State University is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).

Mission

The Department of Music at Western Connecticut State University is a friendly, vibrant, student-oriented unit in an institution of higher learning that serves as an accessible, responsive and creative intellectual resource for the people and institutions of Connecticut. The faculty and staff of the department strive to meet the educational needs of a diverse student body through instruction, performance, scholarship and public service. Additionally, the department fosters the highest standards of teaching and research in its undergraduate and graduate programs and supports the establishment and continuation of a just and moral society through its own accomplishments, the work of its faculty and staff and the achievements of its graduates.

Goals

The primary goals of the Department of Music are:

To provide a professional education for Music majors that develops, nurtures, and assures their competency in all aspects of the discipline;

To encourage development of the creative, intuitive, and intellectual capabilities of students, faculty and audience;

To provide an education for non-majors that introduces them to the discipline of music through appreciation, performance, and basic skills courses, thus developing an informed group of advocates and affirming that music is an integral part of a classic liberal arts education;

To provide for and to enrich the cultural and educational life of the campus, city, state, and region through excellence in instruction, research, performance and composition; and

To support collaborations between music and related disciplines, and to cultivate and apply new approaches to performance, scholarship and education.

Objectives for Music Majors

Students will meet standards of musical performance (through applied music studies, ensembles and master classes) in accordance with NASM guidelines.

Students will demonstrate competence in content-based areas of music history, theory, pedagogy, music technology and analysis.

Students will demonstrate competence in skill-based areas of ear-training/sight-singing, improvisation, composition, keyboard competency and conducting.

Students wishing to pursue degree programs in the Department of Music must adhere to the following criteria for admission:

1. Fulfill general admission guidelines found in this catalog for the university, school and department.

2. Perform and pass an audition, in person or through electronic media, for members of the faculty. The student, through this audition, must exhibit the standards and skill sets required for entry into the Department of Music, including:

a. The ability to read and interpret standard musical notation.

b. The ability to produce an acceptable tone quality on one’s instrument or voice commensurate with entrance into the liberal arts program, the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or one of two professional degree programs, the Bachelor of Music (B.M.) or the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) at the collegiate level.

c. The ability to accurately perform basic fundamentals associated with one’s instrument or voice, such as:

i. clear and focused tone quality;

ii. a clear and precise rhythmic concept;

iii. an understanding of the interpretation of musical line;

iv. acceptable intonation;

v. an understanding of the appropriate style of the selection; and

vi. clear and precise articulation/diction.

d. The ability to accurately perform repertoire on one’s instrument or voice commensurate with entrance into a liberal arts (B.A.) or professional degree program (B.M. or B.S.) at the collegiate level.

3. Take and receive a passing score on a sight-singing/ear-training examination. (This examination will be used for entrance.)

Information regarding audition dates and specific audition requirements for all performance areas may be obtained on the website or by contacting the Department of Music at (203) 837-8350.

Transfer Admissions

All students wishing to transfer into any degree program in music at WCSU must meet the criteria listed above, including those currently attending institutions holding articulation agreements with WCSU. All transfer applicants will be assessed in the areas of applied music, keyboard competency, music history, music theory, and sight-singing/ear-training to determine eligibility for matriculation as well as for transfer credits that may be accepted in individual coursework.

Readmission To all Music Degree Programs

Music majors who withdraw or take a leave of absence from the University must re-audition and pass appropriate placement exams before being re-admitted into their respective degree program. Such exams include music theory, keyboard, sight-singing/ear-training, and music education workshop skills. Additionally, all sophomore barrier requirements may be re-examined. Note: Re-admission may be subject to availability of applied studio space.

Note: The Department of Music recommends taking MUS 108 Music Theory even if AP credit is granted.

Awarding of Credit

Credit Hour: A semester hour of credit is an amount of work represented in intended learning outcomes and verified by evidence of student achievement that is an institutionally established equivalency that reasonably approximates not less than:

1. One hour of classroom or direct faculty instruction and a minimum of two hours of out-of-class student work each week for approximately fifteen weeks;

2. or the equivalent amount of work over a different amount of time;

3. or at least an equivalent amount of work as required in paragraph 1 of this definition for other academic activities as established by the institution including laboratory work, internships, practica, studio work and other engaged academic time leading toward the award of credit hours.

DEGREE PROGRAMS

Bachelor of Arts in Music

Bachelor of Science in Music Education

Bachelor of MusicOptions: B.M. in Performance (Vocal and Instrumental) B.M. in Jazz Studies B.M. Emphasis in Audio and Music Production

Master of Science in Music EducationInformation on the Master of Science (M.S.) in Music Education program can be found on the web and in the WCSU Graduate Catalog.

BACHELOR OF ARTS IN MUSIC (B.A.)

This degree is appropriate for students who wish to study music within the broader context of a liberal arts education. Goals for the B.A. in Music include the following:

To prepare students for possible careers in music and arts related professions.

To increase the student’s understanding and appreciation of the arts in relation to society, thus encouraging their lifelong advocacy of the arts.

To allow students to maintain an emphasis on music while further exploring other academic interests.

To foster intellectual curiosity.

To encourage students to seek breadth and variety in their educational pursuits to aid them in securing employment in the ever-changing global economy.

The B.S. in Music Education degree prepares the student to apply for provisional PK-12 certification in the State of Connecticut. The program is designed for students who wish to pursue a career in music education.

The program goals include:

To prepare students to become highly skilled teaching professionals.

To prepare students to become highly skilled performers on their principal instrument.

To give students a comprehensive musical education which includes experiences in traditional ensembles, jazz and contemporary ensembles, conducting, form & analysis, music history, music of diverse cultures, pedagogy, music technology, composition, improvisation and professional development.

To increase students’ understanding and awareness of the arts in relation to society, in particular the education system, thereby developing life-long advocates of the arts.

Self-declared Music Education majors must maintain a GPA of 2.8 or higher upon the completion of 30 credits of course work in order to remain a self-declared Education major. Students who fail to meet this requirement will be notified of their candidacy status by the Dean of the School of Visual and Performing Arts. Students must achieve a GPA of 3.0 or higher in order to be accepted into all professional education programs as candidates for teacher certification.

Requirements: Bachelor of Science in Music Education – Certification PK-12

Completion of a minimum of 131 semester hours including the physical education requirement, and requirements in music, music education, and education as specified by course number and title in the eight-semester sequence shown below.

*Minimum grade of “B” required.**Students must have been accepted into the Professional Program to register for these courses.*** Or other MED workshop course in consultation with adviser.**** Keyboard majors substitute MUS 220 and MUS 221 Keyboard Pedagogy I & II for MUS 125, 126, 225, and 226 Keyboard Competency I – IV.

Special Music Education Requirements:

1. A minimum grade of “C” is required in each of the following courses for all Music Education majors:

5. Students applying for acceptance into the professional program must first pass their Sophomore Barrier examination before enrolling in professional program courses. FAILURE TO PASS THE SOPHOMORE BARRIER EXAM WILL RESULT IN THE STUDENT’S APPLICATION BEING HELD FOR CONSIDERATION UNTIL THE FOLLOWING SEMESTER.

6. Students applying for acceptance into the Professional Program must adhere to the requirements as set forth in this catalog. (Please refer to the table of contents – Admission to Western section.)

Candidates for the Professional Program in Music must exhibit exemplary leadership and citizenship within the Department of Music (e.g. recital attendance, punctuality, demeanor, willingness to assist colleagues in need of help, etc.)

Candidates must be active members of the WCSU Student Chapter of the Music Educators National Conference (MENC).

Candidates must demonstrate a basic understanding of the nature of professional work in their major field and show a genuine interest in teaching. Examples of this include working at summer music camps, volunteering at local schools, and teaching private lessons.

7. Students earning less than a “P” grade in student teaching may be required to complete additional student teaching and/or course work before receiving a recommendation for graduation and certification. Students must present at least a 2.8 cumulative GPA in academic and professional required courses to graduate as a Music Education major.

8. After completing the academic program and successfully completing student teaching, the PRAXIS II examination must be successfully passed. Although not a requirement for graduation, passing scores on the appropriate Praxis II exam are necessary for program completion and subsequent recommendation for certification.

Learning Outcomes

Bachelor of Arts in Music

As per NASM standards and the stated goals for this degree, students enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts in Music degree program are expected to acquire the following competencies in General Education, Musicianship, and Performance prior to graduation.

1. General Education

The ability to communicate clearly with others through various means, including speaking, writing, and gesture.

The acquisition of a fundamental understanding of mathematics and physical, biological, and computer sciences as they relate to modern society.

The ability to form and defend opinions based on an informed knowledge of culture and history.

The ability to form and defend opinions based on an informed knowledge of moral and ethical philosophies.

The acquisition of a fundamental understanding of how to work out problems in a variety of disciplines in a volatile global society.

The capacity to respect and defend views effectively and rationally.

The acquisition of experiences in the multi-disciplinary nature of the arts and humanities through the study of diverse cultural elements.

2. Musicianship

Students will exhibit a functional knowledge of the rudiments of music, including rhythm, melody, harmony, structure, timbre, and texture.

Students will show an understanding of musical notation and the ability to read and realize standard musical notation at a functional level.

Students will demonstrate a basic knowledge of the processes of composition, improvisation, and how they relate to the spectrum of music in a variety of styles and cultures.

Students will exhibit a broad knowledge of music history and literature, including music of diverse cultures.

Students willshow the ability to develop opinions related to music and the arts and to be able to defend rationally these judgments to professionals and laypersons.

3. Performance and Music Electives

Students will demonstrate performance ability on their major instrument at a level that allows for artistic growth and continuous improvement throughout their chosen career.

Students will exhibit the capacity to realize a variety of musical styles.

Students will demonstrate knowledge and/or skills in one or more areas of music beyond basic musicianship.

BACHELOR OF MUSIC (THREE DEGREE OPTIONS)

BACHELOR OF MUSIC: EMPHASIS IN AUDIO AND MUSIC PRODUCTION (B.M.)

This degree option is designed for students wishing to pursue a career in audio and music production. Many students who choose this option continue their studies at the graduate level and in various professional programs in their specific area. The degree is not an audio engineering degree, but a music degree that provides a well-rounded education in all aspects of production including recording, mixing, sound design, arranging, and scoring.

Goals for the B.M. Emphasis in Audio and Music Production degree option include:

To give students comprehensive capabilities in the basic techniques of audio recording and mixing, studio sound, acoustics, copyright law, music theory, aural skills, arranging, composition, and improvisation necessary to succeed in the music audio production industry.

To provide students with instruction and performing experiences on their principal instrument which will inform their ability to solve technical and artistic problems in the preparation of live performances, recordings, or other media for various purposes and in various musical genres and settings.

To provide students with an understanding of administrative structures and practices associated with music organizations as well as of entrepreneurship and the history of the music industry.

To give students a comprehensive musical education which includes experiences in traditional ensembles, jazz and contemporary ensembles, conducting, form & analysis, music history, music of diverse cultures, pedagogy, music technology, composition, improvisation and professional development.

To prepare students for the academic rigor and professional performance level required for advanced study at the graduate level.

To increase the student’s understanding and awareness of the arts in relation to society, thus developing lifelong advocates of the arts.

Requirements: B.M. Emphasis in Audio and Music Production

Completion of a minimum of 123 semester hours in general education, the exercise science requirements, and the requirements applying to the specific major within the degree as outlined in the official program sheet, available from the student’s adviser.

This degree option is designed for students who wish to pursue a performing and/or private teaching career in music. Many students who choose this option continue their studies at the graduate level and participate in various professional programs in their specific area.

Goals for the B.M. in Performance degree option include:

To prepare students to become highly skilled performers on their principal instrument, thus providing them with the potential to succeed in a highly competitive field.

To give students a comprehensive musical education which includes experiences in traditional ensembles, jazz and contemporary ensembles, conducting, form & analysis, music history, music of diverse cultures, pedagogy, music technology, composition, improvisation and professional development.

To prepare students for careers as private music teachers.

To prepare students for the academic rigor and professional performance level required for advanced study at the graduate level.

To increase the student’s understanding and awareness of the arts in relation to society, thus developing lifelong advocates of the arts.

Requirements: B.M. in Performance

Completion of a minimum of 125 (instrumental) or 127 (vocal) semester hours in general education, the exercise science requirements, and the requirements applying to the specific major within the degree as outlined in the official program sheet, available from the student’s adviser.

This degree option is designed for students wishing to pursue a performing and/or teaching career in jazz and commercial music. Many students who choose this option continue their studies at the graduate level and in various professional programs in their specific area. Goals for the B.M. in Jazz Studies degree option include:

To prepare students to become highly skilled performers on their principal instrument, thus giving them the potential to succeed in a highly competitive field.

To give students the requisite skills in theory, arranging, composition, and improvisation necessary to succeed in the industry.

To give students a comprehensive musical education which includes experiences in traditional ensembles, jazz and contemporary ensembles, conducting, form & analysis, music history, music of diverse cultures, pedagogy, music technology, composition, improvisation and professional development.

To prepare students for careers as private music teachers.

To prepare students for the academic rigor and professional performance level required for advanced study at the graduate level.

To increase the student’s understanding and awareness of the arts in relation to society, thus developing lifelong advocates of the arts.

Requirements: B.M. in Jazz Studies

Completion of a minimum of 127 semester hours in general education, the exercise science requirements, and the requirements applying to the specific major within the degree as outlined in the official program sheet, available from the student’s adviser.

(B.S. in Music Education, B.M. Emphasis in Audio and Music Production, B.M. in Jazz Studies, B.M. in Performance-Vocal Emphasis, B.M. in Performance-Instrumental Emphasis)

As per NASM Standards and the stated purposes of the Department of Music, students enrolled in professional baccalaureate degree programs in music are expected to acquire the following competencies in General Studies, Performance, Musicianship, Composition/Improvisation, History/Repertory, and Synthesis prior to graduation.

1. General Studies

The ability to communicate clearly with others through various means, including speaking, writing, and gesture.

The acquisition and demonstration of a fundamental understanding of basic principles beyond music that is relevant to functioning in a modern society, such as those in the arts and humanities, mathematics, the natural and physical sciences, and the social sciences.

The ability to exhibit a functional awareness of the differences and commonalities regarding work in artistic, scientific, and humanistic domains.

The ability to form and defend opinions based on an informed knowledge of moral and ethical philosophies.

The acquisition and demonstration of a fundamental understanding of how to work out problems in a variety of disciplines in a volatile global society.

The capacity to respect and defend views effectively and rationally.

The acquisition of experiences in the multi-disciplinary nature of the arts and humanities through the study of diverse cultural elements.

The ability to identify possibilities and locate information in other fields that have bearing on musical questions and endeavors.

2. Performance

The ability to interpret and perform standard repertoire appropriate to one’s instrument or voice with skill and artistic fluency commensurate with a professional in their chosen field;

The ability to read music at sight at a level of proficiency commensurate with a professional in their chosen field;

The ability to perform music of various time periods in the appropriate style;

The ability to utilize the keyboard as a means for harmonic, melodic, and formal support to one’s chosen area of specialization;

The ability to serve in a leadership role throughout the entire performance process including as a conductor, chamber musician, and pedagogue; and

The ability to perform as a collaborative musician at a professional level, exhibiting artistic and technical skills necessary to be successful in their chosen area of specialization.

Specific to the B.M. in Jazz Studies

Thorough knowledge of, and fluency reading, analyzing, and composing music utilizing the melodic, harmonic and rhythmic values associated with jazz and contemporary idioms.

Ability to recognize standard chord progressions and formal structures aurally and to be able to create coherent improvisations and compositions based on these elements and formal structures.

3. Musicianship Skills and Analysis

Thorough knowledge of, and fluency reading, analyzing and composing diatonic and chromatic music of the common practice period. Application of 20th century music study through score study, including analysis and composition of twelve-tone works, demonstrating fluency writing music using the prime, inversion, retrograde and retrograde-inversion forms;

Ability to take rhythmic and melodic aural dictation at a level that supports musical and artistic development in the area of specialization;

Knowledge of musical formal structures and processes as it relates to analysis, performance and pedagogy according to their area of specialization; and,

Broad knowledge of historical, cultural and stylistic contexts as well as a more intricate knowledge related to the area of specialization.

Specific to the B.M. Emphasis in Audio and Music Production

Thorough knowledge of, and fluency reading, analyzing and composing music utilizing the melodic, harmonic and rhythmic values associated with jazz and contemporary idioms.

Specific to the B.M. in Jazz Studies

Thorough knowledge of, and fluency reading, analyzing and composing music utilizing the melodic, harmonic and rhythmic values associated with jazz and contemporary idioms.

Ability to recognize standard chord progressions and formal structures aurally and to be able to create coherent improvisations and compositions based on these elements and formal structures.

4. Composition and Improvisation

Students are expected to develop a functional foundation in composition and improvisation that will provide the basis for further study throughout the course of their lives.

Specific to the B.M. Emphasis in Audio and Music Production

Students shall be able to exhibit composition and arranging skills specific to the process of producing live performances as well as analog and digital media.

Specific to the B.M. in Jazz Studies

Students will demonstrate the ability to simultaneously incorporate the idiomatic language of jazz and their own musical directions in all performance and composition situations.

Students will show evidence of progress in mastering the idiomatic jazz language and individual progress in developing a unique voice as an improviser.

5. History and Repertory

Students are expected to exhibit significant knowledge of the history and repertories according to their respective areas of specialization through the present time as well as a basic understanding of music of diverse cultures.

All members of performance groups in all areas are expected to do basic discographic research into repertoire studied so as to gain an understanding the breadth of interpretation for most works.

6. Synthesis

1. Students enrolled in professional baccalaureate degree programs, by the end of undergraduate study, are expected to exhibit the ability to work on musical problems by combining, as appropriate to the issue, their capabilities in performance; aural, verbal, and visual analysis; composition/improvisation; and history and repertory.

Additional Learning Outcomes by Degree Program

Bachelor of Science in Music Education

1. Music Competencies

As per NASM standards and the stated goals for this degree, students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Music Education degree program are expected to acquire the following essential musical competencies upon graduation:

Students are expected to show competence in conducting and musical leadership, including the ability to read scores, transpose parts, communicate musical ideas through the use of gesture and technique, and ascertain and solve musical problems;

Students are expected to develop arranging skills sufficient to adapt music from a variety of sources for various functions and ensembles;

Students are expected to exhibit functional performance abilities in keyboard and voice in addition to instruments appropriate to the teaching specialization; and

Students are expected to gain the ability to apply analytical, musicological, and performing skills to curriculum development and lesson planning.

2. Specialization Competencies

As per NASM standards and the stated goals for this degree, students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Music Education degree program are expected to acquire the following essential specialization competencies in general music, choral music and instrumental music upon graduation:

General Music

Students are expected to exhibit musicianship, vocal, and pedagogical skills sufficient to teach general music;

Students are expected to exhibit knowledge of content methodologies, philosophies, materials, technologies, and curriculum development for general music; and

Students are expected to exhibit the ability to lead performance-based instruction.

Vocal/Choral Music

Students are expected to exhibit vocal pedagogical skill sufficient to teach effective use of the voice:

Students are expected to exhibit knowledge of content methodologies, philosophies, materials, technologies, and curriculum development for vocal/choral music; and

Students are expected to show ability sufficient to use at least one instrument as a teaching tool.

Instrumental Music

Students are expected to exhibit knowledge of and performance ability on wind, string, and percussion instruments sufficient to teach beginning students effectively in groups; and

Students are expected to exhibit knowledge of content methodologies, philosophies, materials, technologies, and curriculum development for instrumental music.

Bachelor of Music Emphasis in Audio and Music Production

Students in the B.M. Emphasis in Audio and Music Production degree will be expected to acquire the following essential competencies in the area of Music Industry Studies and Recording Technology/ Audio Production upon graduation, based on the stated purposes of the degree:

1. Studies in Music, Business, Music Industry

Understanding of the overall function and structure of the music industry.

Understanding of administrative structures and practices associated with music organizations.

Functional knowledge of computer and technological applications in the music industry.

Acquaintance with approaches and means to professional development, including job-seeking strategies, and interview techniques.

Understanding of entrepreneurship and history of the music industry.

2. Studies in Recording Technology

Comprehensive capabilities in the basic techniques of audio recording, audio engineering, and studio sound, including but not limited to microphone theory and technique, knowledge of other peripheral equipment, and the ability to solve technical and artistic problems in the preparation of recordings for various purposes and in various settings.

Fundamental knowledge of recording equipment and practice and the ability to apply this knowledge in recording situations. This includes but is not limited to equipment calibration, alignment, and testing, and studio set-up for various types of recordings in various professional settings.

Aural skills sufficient to make accurate and viable recording decisions associated with various applications and proper functioning of equipment.

Ability to develop specific recordings of professional quality from concept to technical and artistic process to finished work.

Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies

1. Essential Competencies, Experiences, and Opportunities

Expected Levels of Achievement

As per NASM standards and the stated goals for this degree, students enrolled in the Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies degree program are expected to acquire the following essential competencies upon graduation:

Students are expected to develop and demonstrate comprehensive capabilities in various jazz idioms, including the ability to perform, improvise, compose, arrange and score; and knowledge of jazz history and literature, including the cultural sources and influences of jazz;

Students will demonstrate the ability to work as a performer and composer/arranger with a variety of jazz and studio music idioms in various settings and with various sizes and types of ensembles, including the ability to produce the appropriate expressive style of the music being created or presented;

Students will exhibit a fundamental knowledge of pedagogical principles in various aspects of jazz education, including improvisation, conducting and arranging/composing.

Bachelor of Music in Performance-Instrumental Emphasis

1. Essential Competencies, Experiences, and Opportunities

Expected Levels of Achievement

As per NASM standards and the stated goals for this degree, students enrolled in the Bachelor of Music in Performance-Instrumental Emphasis degree program are expected to acquire the following essential competencies upon graduation:

Comprehensive capabilities in the major performing medium including the ability to work independently to prepare performances at the highest possible level;

Knowledge of applicable solo and ensemble literature to be successful in the area of specialization; and

Exhibit a fundamental knowledge of pedagogical principles according to their specialization.

Bachelor of Music in Performance-Vocal Emphasis

1. Essential Competencies, Experiences, and Opportunities

Expected Levels of Achievement

As per NASM standards and the stated goals for this degree, students enrolled in the Bachelor of Music in Performance-Vocal Emphasis degree program are expected to acquire the following essential competencies upon graduation:

Comprehensive capabilities in the major performing medium including the ability to work independently to prepare performances at the highest possible level;

Knowledge of applicable solo and ensemble literature to be successful in the area of specialization;

Exhibit a fundamental knowledge of pedagogical principles according to their specialization; and

Develop functionality in at least one foreign language, with the ability to use proper diction in English, French, German, and Italian.

MINOR IN MUSIC

To be considered for admission to the minor program at Western, a student must be enrolled in an academic major other than music and must formally audition for the Department of Music. An average GPA of 2.30 in all minor courses must be maintained to fulfill the requirements of the minor. Forms for applying for this minor area of study can be obtained in the Office of the Dean of the School of Visual and Performing Arts, Higgins Annex, Room 105, or in the Office of the Department of Music, White Hall, Room 128. Please contact the Department of Music at 203-837-8350 to schedule an audition. Audition information is available online.

MUS 108, 109 Music Theory I & II (2-2)

4 SH

MUS 114, 115 Sight Singing/Ear Training I, II (2-2)

4 SH

MUS 230, 231 Music History & Literature I, II (3-3)

6 SH

MUS 182, 183 Applied Music (1-1)

2 SH

Music Performance Ensembles (.5-.5-.5-.5)

2 SH

Total Credits

18 SH

• A completed “Minor in Music Application Form” (available in the Office of the Department of Music, White Hall 128) must be submitted to the Department of Music Chair.

• Upon successful completion of the requirements listed above, the student must notify the Registrar’s Office that this minor should be included on his/her official transcript.

MUS 113, Convocation, Concert and Recital Repertoire

All music students are required to enroll in MUS 113, Convocation, Concert and Recital Repertoire. MUS 113 meets each Monday and Wednesday at noon in Ives Concert Hall or designated studio performance areas. Students are required to attend no fewer than 80 percent of all recitals and 100 percent of all master classes. In addition, students are required to attend five additional concerts during each semester. Programs from these concerts are to be turned in at the end of each semester during juries.

Piano Proficiency

All students enrolled in the B.S. in Music Education, B.M. in Performance (vocal and instrumental), B.M. in Jazz Studies, B.M. Emphasis in Audio and Music Production, or B.A. in music programs must complete piano proficiency requirements in their area as follows:

All students enrolled in applied music courses are required to present a jury at the end of each semester, unless they are presenting a degree recital or a Sophomore Barrier at the end of the semester in question. (Students performing degree recitals will be assessed for sight-reading and scale/rudiment proficiency only at their jury.) Students must fill out a jury assessment form with complete information regarding repertoire studied during each semester of study. Jury assessment forms are available in the Department of Music Office. Completed jury assessment forms, with faculty observations and comments, as well as video and or/audio recordings of the assessment are available for student review in the Department of Music Office in the semester immediately following each jury.

Sophomore Barrier Jury

All students enrolled in the B.S. in Music Education, the B.M. in Audio and Music Production, the B.M. in Performance, or the B.M. in Jazz Studies programs must pass a Sophomore Barrier Jury on their major instrument/voice, as well as pass proficiency examinations in keyboard competency and sight-singing. Students will also be evaluated for professionalism as exhibited over the course of the first four semesters.

Passing of the Sophomore Barrier Jury and proficiency examinations in keyboard competency and sight-singing is required prior to enrollment in upper-division applied music courses (MUS 390/391; MUS 392/393). The musicianship portion of the exam will take place after the successful completion of four semesters of musicianship courses (theory, keyboard competency, sight-singing/ear-training). The performance portion of the jury will take place after successful completion of four semesters of applied music on the student’s major instrument. The musicianship and performance portions of the exam will be administered consecutively on the same jury exam day.

Students may take their Sophomore Barrier Jury if the following criteria have been met:

1. Passing grade in four semesters of 100-level applied music as required for the student’s major (BS or BM).

Note: Students may attempt the Sophomore Barrier a second time if unsuccessful the first time. Both portions of the Sophomore Barrier exam (Performance and Musicianship) must be taken at the second attempt even if one section was already deemed satisfactory. Failure to pass the Sophomore Barrier a second time will preclude a student from continuing in the chosen degree program. Should a student fail the exam a second time, the Department of Music will send notification of a change of the major to a Bachelor of Arts in Music. The student may also select a different major in another department. A student who receives 3 marginal grades in the General Musicianship Skills & Professionalism section of the Barrier on their second attempt but also receives a unanimous grade of satisfactory in the separately labeled Professionalism area may, in consultation with the chair, petition for a third and final Barrier hearing. The Professionalism area will be an evaluation of a student’s classroom attendance, reliability, leadership, and overall deportment.

Specific Sophomore Barrier Requirements (Minimum)

Sophomore Barrier Exam Jury. Students are assessed for competency in sight singing and ear training as well as keyboard skills prior to advancement to upper-division applied study and coursework. Students are required to exhibit the following skills at the musicianship portion of the Sophomore Barrier Jury, to be taken at the end of their fourth semester of study:

a. Achievement in sight-singing at an acceptable level (e.g., sing examples from Music for Sight-Singing by Robert Ottman, ex 8.1 – 8.11 or similar).

b. Harmonize and play a simple song on the piano (selected by the faculty) in three keys of the students choosing.

c. Harmonize a melody on the piano at sight using diatonic chords I IV and V (i, iv and v).

e. Students in the Jazz Studies and Audio/Music Production areas are required to demonstrate basic keyboard knowledge including the ability to perform a 12-bar blues melody and chord progression in all 12 keys and a prepared jazz standard with proper drop-2 voicings, etc.

f. Students in the Bachelor of Music-Vocal Emphasis degree program will demonstrate the ability to prepare a piece of vocal music within three days (Three-Day Piece) and read text in another language (Italian, German, etc.).

Professionalism

The Professionalism area will be an evaluation of a student’s classroom attendance, reliability, leadership, and overall deportment. A student who receives 3 marginal grades in the General Musicianship Skills & Professionalism section of the Barrier on their second attempt but also receives a unanimous grade of satisfactory in the separately labeled Professionalism area may, in consultation with the chair, file a petition with the full-time faculty for a third and final Barrier hearing.

Applied Music Courses

Applied music courses are open to students enrolled in a Music degree program (B.A., B.M., B.S.) or the Music minor. All students must pass an entrance audition. Please see the Department of Music Student Handbook or go tohttp://www.wcsu.edu/music/audition.asp for specific requirements for entrance auditions prior to enrolling in any music degree program. Students may register for lessons on their major instrument/voice only as defined in their degree program as follows:

a. Bachelor of Arts. MUS 181, 182 (4 Semesters) 1 SH Credit. Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts in Music degree program receive 12 half-hour lessons per semester, plus an additional 6 hours of classroom instruction as a part of MUS 113 Convocation, Concert and Recital Repertoire. Students are expected to spend a minimum of three (3) additional hours of practice time per week in preparation for their applied lesson.

b. Bachelor of Science in Music Education. MUS 180, 181 (4 Semesters); MUS 390, 391 (3 Semesters) 2 SH Credit. Students enrolled in these degree programs receive 12 one-hour lessons per semester, plus an additional 6 hours of classroom instruction as a part of MUS 113 Convocation, Concert and Recital Repertoire. Students are expected to spend a minimum of six (6) additional hours of practice time per week in preparation for their applied lesson.

c. Bachelor of Music: Emphasis in Audio and Music Production. MUS 180, 181 (4 Semesters); MUS 390, 391 (4 Semesters) 2 SH Credit. Students enrolled in these degree programs receive 12 one-hour lessons per semester, plus an additional 6 hours of classroom instruction as a part of MUS 113 Convocation, Concert and Recital Repertoire. Students are expected to spend a minimum of six (6) additional hours of practice time per week in preparation for their applied lesson.

d. Bachelor of Music in Performance MUS 186, 187 (4 Semesters); MUS 392, 393 (4 Semesters) 3 SH Credit.Students enrolled in this program receive 12 one-hour lessons per semester, plus an additional 6 hours of classroom instruction as a part of MUS 113 Convocation, Concert and Recital Repertoire. Students are expected to spend a minimum of nine (9) additional hours of practice time per week in preparation for their applied lesson.

e. Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies MUS 186, 187 (4 Semesters); MUS 392, 393 (4 Semesters) 3 SH Credit. Students enrolled in this degree program receive 12 one-hour lessons per semester, plus an additional 6 hours of classroom instruction as a part of MUS 113 Convocation, Concert and Recital Repertoire. Students are expected to spend a minimum of nine (9) additional hours of practice time per week in preparation for their applied lesson.

Applied lessons are scheduled with the applied instructor either prior to or during the first week of classes. Applied instructor assignments are made by the Department Chair in consultation with each area’s applied instructors. A listing of applied lesson assignments is available in the Department of Music Office.

It is the responsibility of the student to contact the faculty member in the case of an unavoidable conflict with the scheduled lesson time. Faculty members are obligated to provide make–up lessons only in the case of verifiable excuse or absence by the faculty member.

Students in the BM degree programs may request secondary (minor) applied music lessons in their Junior year. Approval for secondary lessons is granted on a case-by-case basis by the Department Chair. Students must show evidence of exemplary performance ability on their primary instrument to be considered for secondary applied lessons.

Each student will keep a studio notebook that will include lesson information and assignments, pedagogical feedback from Master Classes and information from Convocation. The notebooks will be checked at the Sophomore Barrier Exam and again at the final jury exam during Senior year.

All students taking applied music lessons pay the following fees:

•Applied Music $150 – $600 per course, per semester.

Secondary Applied Lessons

Students enrolled in the B.S. in Music Education, the B.M. in Audio and MusicProduction, the B.M. in Performance and the B.M. in Jazz Studies degree programs may enroll in a secondary applied area during their Junior year. To enroll in a secondary applied area, the student must:

A. Pass the Sophomore Barrier Jury on their major instrument or voice.

B. Exhibit an exemplary academic and performance record with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

C. Obtain approval from the primary applied instructor, as well as from the applied instructor of the secondary area.

D. Obtain administrative approval from the Department Chair.

Note: Students taking a secondary instrument may enroll in MUS 182/183 for a maximum of four semesters. They are subject to the additional fee of $100 for a half-hour lesson.

Recital Requirements

Students in all music programs must present at least one performance each semester at the Monday and Wednesday recitals and/or master classes. Compliance is monitored by area coordinators in jazz studies, brass and percussion, woodwinds, keyboard and strings, and voice. Failure to perform in at least one recital or master class in a given semester will result in the lowering of the final grade in Applied Music by one letter grade.

Half Recital

Students in the B.M. in Performance and B.M. in Jazz Studies programs must present a half-hour recital during their Junior year. Recital repertoire is selected after careful consultation with the student’s applied instructor. A pre-recital hearing must be performed at least four weeks prior to the recital. Please refer to the Department of Music Student Handbook for further information concerning proper procedures for the half recital.

Senior Capstone Project/Recital

Students in the B.M. in Performance and B.M. in Jazz Studies programs must present an hour-long recital during their Senior year. For students in the B.M. Emphasis in Audio and Music Production option, completion of their capstone project consists of the production of a large-scale project such as a self-produced CD, film score, multimedia production, etc. Recital and project repertoire/content is selected after careful consultation with the student’s applied instructor. A pre-recital hearing or capstone project pre-screening must occur at least four weeks prior to the event or presentation of the final project. Please refer to the Department of Music Student Handbook for further information concerning proper procedures for the capstone project/full recital.

Note: Any B.S. in Music Education major wishing to present a half recital may register for the half recital. Typically, B.S. Music Education students present a half recital during the last semester of applied music study. B.S. Music Education students must conform to the requirements for half recitals as specified in the Department of Music Student Handbook and provide documentation of at least three solo performances during their time of study at the MUS 113 Convocation in order to be considered eligible for the half recital.

Major EnsemblesDecided by audition and advisement. The following list outlines the major and secondary ensemble requirements by degree and instrument. The first line indicates major ensemble requirements followed by the secondary/chamber ensemble requirements.

Performance ensembles at WCSU are designed to give music students a wide variety of performing experiences. Students are encouraged to perform in as many different ensembles as their schedules will allow. Full-time Music majors must perform in a major ensemble, according to their voice/instrument, every semester. Ensemble credit in excess of the minimum will be applied as elective credit. Additional ensemble requirements are outlined in the program sheets of each degree program. Auditions for major ensembles and chamber ensembles are held during the first week of classes. Students are placed in ensembles appropriate to their ability/experience level. The student’s personal schedule, including work-related conflicts, is not a factor in ensemble placement. Any student who fails to meet their major ensemble obligations due to personal or work-related schedule conflicts will be required to take the ensemble an additional semester before graduation.

Use of WCSU Department of Music Facilities

Persons who use the music facilities at Western Connecticut State University must be registered students in the Department of Music at WCSU. Students must obtain proper identification from the Public Safety office at WCSU. Faculty, staff, and security officers are authorized to ask individuals to see their current and valid WCSU ID. Damage or vandalism of property belonging to the university or others is prohibited and may require restitution as well as subject persons responsible to disciplinary and/or legal action.

Building Hours / After Hours Access

White Hall is open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 1 a.m.; Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 noon, and closed on Sundays. Music students may be put on an access list to use the practice room areas after hours and on the weekends. Students who wish to be on the access list must see the Department of Music Secretary. Your WestConnect card will allow access to the quad side door of White Hall.

Electronic Devices

The Department of Music adheres to a strict policy regarding the use of electronic devices (e.g. cell phones, pdas, digital music players, etc.). Use of such devices during concerts, recitals, rehearsals and classes is strictly prohibited. Students found texting, tweeting, faxing, or participating in other such activities will be asked to leave the premises and will forfeit their enrollment in the ensemble or class for the semester.

Audio and Video RecordingThe audio and video recording of concerts, rehearsals and classes is strictly prohibited without authorization from the Department Chair. The posting of audio and video files on such web sites as YouTube, MySpace and Facebook is strictly prohibited in accordance with international copyright law.